Vegan cuisine throwdown: Vote for OHIO in PETA competition

Ohio University is competing against 32 other colleges and universities to be named the Most Vegan-Friendly College for 2010 by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

In the first round, OHIO is up against Indiana University, the 2006 winner. Culinary and Dining Operations is asking OHIO students, faculty, staff and alumni to vote for the Bobcats to propel the University into the next round of competition.

The competition, now in its fourth year, is sponsored by PETA2, the youth-oriented branch of the national animal-rights organization. The award calls attention to colleges that offer a wide range of vegan options.

“We are very proud to have received this nomination as one of the most vegan-friendly campuses in the United States,” said Gwyn Scott, executive director for Culinary and Dining Operations. “This nomination is based on receptiveness to student suggestions as well as the creativity of our dining staff to make them happen.”

Culinary and Dining Operations has worked diligently to bring variety and taste to OHIO’s vegan populations. Last year the University made it into the competition’s top 10, a feat the department is hoping to match this year.

Student input has been vital in creating dishes that students, vegan and non-vegan alike, will eat.

"We are constantly inspired to take our vegetarian and vegan options to the next level by our students," said Executive Chef Matt Rapposelli. "We meet with them, listen to what they would like, and try to make it happen. We know we have hit a home run when a vegetarian or vegan item becomes popular with all of our diners, not just the vegetarians or vegans."

Now, the University community has an opportunity to vote for the dishes that they dine on so often and show the nation that OHIO’s cuisine is as diverse as it is delicious. Voting for the competition’s first round closes on Monday, Oct. 18. Winners will be announced on Nov. 19. To place your vote visit: http://bit.ly/ouvegan